Tanya vs. the Empire

Disclaimer: Gate: Thus the JSDF Fought There and Saga of Tanya the Evil belong to their respective owners. Rated M for likely violent elements and extreme bouts of profanity within the story.

Normal conversation: "Being X…"

Another language: "Being X…"

Thoughts: Being X

Chapter 2: Into the breach

Zorzal was all alone. He recognized the landscape, which seemed eerie for some reason, he was in. It was the barbarian city he and his forces invaded. But instead of the supposed deaths and spoils of its victims, all around him lay his imperial army: soldiers, humanoid axillaries, even fly dragons – all dead, lying on the ground, horribly mutilated. The scene was disconcerting for the young prince, he felt unsafe. He had to get away and fast.

A crackling, hollow laughter could be heard. It came from high above. Looking up he saw a silhouette of someone hovering high above the cityscape, bearing down his, or her, gaze upon him. Zorzal knew something awful was about to happen to him, but he couldn't move for some reason. Was it fear or something else? He just stood rooted to the spot. The floating figure then swooped quickly towards him with the intent of hitting him with whatever it held in its clutches. He it knew it will hurt bad and would be horrific. Everything seemed to move fast: he saw a wicked face with a sadistic smile before his world went spinning and he gets to see his headless body struggling as blood spluttered from its stumpy neck.

Zorzal woke with start, gasping for relief. It just took a couple of moments for him to realize it was just nightmare, a terrible one. Nonetheless he is alive, grasping his neck and was glad that his head is still on it. But he soon discovered the bandages across one his cheeks, the one that got horribly slashed.

"Milord! You've awaken! I thought you'd never rouse again!"

It was Tyuule. She grasped her liege tightly out of concern, but Zorzal wasn't even minding her. He looked around his surroundings. It was night and it appeared they were camped out in the open. There were only a few present: a couple of dragon riders and their mounts.

"Where are we?" he began.

"We're a days away from Sadera, mi-" Zorzal slapped the warrior bunny slave causing her to detach from his person and fall to the ground groggily.

"Who's in charge here?" he demanded.

"I am, milord!" A dragon rider stepped forward to face him, looking kind of nervous while stealing glances at a sprawling Tyuule.

"What happened? Where is the rest of the army?" vehemently asked Zorzal.

"We don't know what became of them milord. We had to leave them for the sake of your safety. It's what your slave requested." he gestured towards Tyuule.

Zorzal glanced at her with an unchanging demeanor, she being the least of his concerns. "What of the enemy? Did they follow?"

"No idea milord. It was that very reason we to take you away as soon as we can, fearing that the barbarians would make pursuit through the Gate."

"Then what in the underworld are we sitting around here for? The enemy could be close on heels for all we know. For they could fly too! And they don't need flying dragons to do that!"

"But milord! The dragon mounts are spent. They need some rest before continuing on."

"Then push them to the limits! If you value my wellbeing, you'll do what it takes to get me home to the capital!"

While Zorzal and the dragon rider were arguing, Tyuule recovered her wits. She wiped her bloody nose with the back of her hand and risked glancing at the one who struck her. Genuine malice filled her ruby colored eyes, her teeth gritted to stay the welling anger within her.

I could kill you now actually at the expense of my life. But then what? The Empire will only honor you as a hero or such nonsense. I want the whole Empire to pay for the humiliation and death of my nation! And think I found something that would accomplish that end.

Tyuule sinisterly smiled, thinking back. Yes, the people from beyond the Gate. If I know them they will follow through. If I could use them…

The severity of the aftermath of what would be known as the Battle of Berun became apparent when it ended. Over three thousand dead, including almost a thousand military personal perished on the night of the attack, an attack so unexpected it was never thought to have been conceivable. I'm greatly reminded of a similar incident back in my old world which involved my country many years ago, which against all odds managed to shock a great power. The circumstances were somewhat strikingly similar. They thought they were untouchable, and even though unlike the Empire, which has involved itself in so many conflicts, their avoidance in another world war left them very much complacent and vulnerable, and thus the tragedy that befell them. However that finally awakened and roused them to seek justice and revenge, a path of which now the Empire is heading.

The federal monarchy, and thus the Kaiser himself, wanted to deal with this new and immediate threat, the Gate, making pronouncements to send the army through and deliver a decisive blow to the enemy at their homeland. While such discussions were underway, the military establishment have been quietly fast tracking ever since after the attack preparations for the first incursion into the Gate.

General Staff Headquarters, a few days after the Battle of Berun

"So we're going to use the 203rd for this?" said Brigadier General Kurt von Rudesdorf. Present with him were Brigadier General Hans von Zettour and Colonel Erich von Ruregen. All men were seated with the two senior officials facing opposite Ruregen.

"It's Major Degurechaff's idea. She passionately volunteered for this after all." replied Zettour, his face ever impassive. Redesdorf grunted as he sardonically smiled underneath his thick moustache.

"How cheeky of her." he muttered. He took a reflective puff of his cigar before continuing. "She hasn't been acting her usual self ever since 'that'." He was referring to the fiasco over at the beer hall which he tried shaking off his mind. Rudesdorf turns to Colonel Rerugen. "Your misgivings over her are warranted. I would have never believed it hadn't I seen it for myself. She's a menace to our men, and to the establishment."

"Yes," Ruregen answered, somewhat halfheartedly. "I'm glad you see it that way." Rudesdorf raised a brow at this.

"What's the matter, Colonel? Having a change of heart, after being rescued by the Major?"

"No, not at all. What she did was no less what any soldier would do: risking their lives in order save a comrade-in-arms. That was all. She did rescue you both and the rest of the officers as well."

"Yes, that she did," said Rudesdorf as he tapped off the spent end of his cigar over an astray, "While trying to prove a point in bad taste."

Zettour decided it best to intervene at this point. "In spite of any misgivings towards Major Degurechaff, she has been exemplary in her duties as soldier of the Empire on that day that even the Kaiser himself took notice and recognized her selfless acts of bravery and service. There is even talk that His Majesty plans to decorate her with one of the highest honor of the land."

"So I've heard…" Rudesdorf mulled, finally finish with is smoke and mashing it into the receptacle.

"Even the Kaiser? His Majesty can't be serious!" Ruregan was shocked by this revelation. While he is somewhat indebted to Tanya for saving him, it doesn't change the fact she is an unstable, twisted character who seems to know and take advantage of the system. Whether by design or coincidence she has just gained the favor of the absolute ruler of the Empire.

"Quite frankly things are taking into a political color," continued Zettour while absentmindedly grasping his chin. "The Empire needs heroes after the incident, and it just so happens to be Major Degurechaff. Already I hear some are calling her: Savior of Berun."

"Unbelievable." breathed Ruregen in disbelief. Truly, she's a very frightening thing if she won the hearts of the populace.

General Rudesdorf gruffly cleared his throat. "Gentlemen, forgive this old man for straying from the real business at hand." He paused a bit, waiting for everyone to focus on him. "Besides Major Degurechaff's unit, we're planning on sending through an expeditionary force, to establish a foothold on the other side. To make sure nothing can pass through and make a repeat of what happen days ago. " He stares intently at Ruregen. "Erich, you'll be leading that force."

"Me, sir? But why me?"

Both Rudesdorf and Zettour glanced at each other. Zettour then answers. "We believe it be best that you to take on a field assignment. You've proven yourself quite a capable tactician, and have been instrumental in the successes in our various campaigns of late, including the one that won us victory over the Francois Republic. We need someone like you to take charge of this new front that is to open."

"I'm deeply honored of your trust in me with such an undertaking. But shouldn't someone with more field experience should have been chosen?"

Zettour already had an answer. "All of our forces, in all fronts, and their present commanders have been put on heightened alert in light of the possibility that our enemies would take advantage of this incident. We do not wish to make any changes in the structure of our commanders in the field at this present time."

"Of course there is another reason why we chose you to lead and go there." added Rudesdorf, who was lighting up a fresh cigar.

"Major Degurechaff." answered Ruregen, who had a feeling on where this was leading to.

"What better person to oversee the Major, while there, than someone who is somewhat familiar with her nature." said Zettour with a smile.

"That means she answers to you, Colonel. Report her plans and activities. Put a rein on her if needed be. I know this may seem uncomfortable for you-"

"No." Ruregen stood up and saluted. "I gladly accept the assignment."

Downtown Berun

"Excuse me. But is this place open?"

Visha peeked through the door of a drinking establishment, asking the proprietor by the bar if they're open for business.

"We're open. C'mon right in."

She gleefully thanked him and turned to someone behind her. "Come on, guys! Let's get in."

The barkeep was a bit surprised and happy to see more than one customer coming in into his bar and no less than Empire soldiers. "Welcome! Sit wherever you want and I'll get to you."

Visha was accompanied by Weiss, Koenig, Nuemann, and Glanz. The five took on a single table.

"Four beers please! And something on the sweet side for out cute Second Lieutenant, if you have." called out Neumann to the owner.

"Lieutenant Neumann!" Visha blushed in embarrassment.

"I could fix her up some orange juice, if that's okay?" answered the owner.

Visha quickly replied, to avoid further embarrassment. "Yes, I'm okay with orange juice, mister."

The owner soon brought the group's order to their table

"Has it been always this slow barkeep?" asked Weiss, referring to the emptiness of the common room save their group.

"Nope. This place starts getting lively during this time. But no thanks to the attack, and that damn thing a few blocks away, business has been at a standstill. Also," he suddenly turned grim. "I haven't seen most of my regulars lately. I fear the worse for them." The five momentarily shared his solemnness. Visha brightened up.

"I'm sure they're just around. Probably with their families-"

"I appreciate you trying to cheer me up and all lil' miss, but what I really want to know is," he switched into being serious. "What does the military intend to do with that thing?"

"You mean – the Gate?" answered Koenig, already taking sip off his mug.

"Gate is it?" the barkeep said gruffly. "Well whatever! That's were those things and romans came from. Some are saying it's some kind of magic weapon made by our enemies. Is there any truth to that?"

Second Lieutenant Glanz decided to pitch in his personal input. "We're pretty much in the dark ourselves on what it is really. But we could assure you, that the military is on top of it."

The barkeep grunted, seemly unsatisfied by the answer. "I for one would like to see that damn thing destroyed. Make those bastard don't ever come back. But there are lot of folks wanting revenge. The terrible things they did that night, the lives lost. They want the military to exact justice for them and for the Fatherland, to whoever they may be."

Upon seeing that he has been taken much time on his customers, he sighed in resignation. "Sorry, I'll let you in peace with your drinks, if you need anything else just howler." The owner then returns to the bar and starts cleaning over there.

"I really feel kind of sad, for all those poor people that night." mumbled Visha, soulfully looking over at her drink as she playfully shifting it from side to side.

Weiss banged his empty mug onto the table, startling Visha all the sudden. "Damn it! We finally won the war! We deserved to celebrate! But those damn romans and their…monster-things had to ruin things! Taking lives of people we swore to protect!"

"Now, now, lieutenant. Everybody is as upset as you." Neuman patted Weiss at the back, while the disgruntled Lieutenant raised his mug towards barkeep, silently requesting for another one. "I'm sure the top brass will have us go after those bastards and sock it to them eventually."

"Speaking of the brass, the Major seemed very determined to have us go after the enemy back then, even after just having won against them. Why do you think that?" Koenig asked.

"Did it have something to do with the Major trashing that corpse?" interjected Glanz. "Hey Visha you've known the Major the longest. Have you known her to talk with the dead while insulting them and mutilating their bodies?

Visha almost spit her drink but ended up choking a bit. She cleared her throat before replying. "No, nothing like that. I know the Major sometimes seem to space out at times and make these scary faces, like she's wishing ill for someone or something." She awkwardly smiled. "But in spite of that, I know she really means well."

Neumann gave Glanz as stern tone. "You should know better in asking that Glanz. You've known the Major for a while. She can be coarse, brutal, and callous, even with us. Remember what she did you and Visha?"

Both junior officers grew pale of the memory of their 'training exercise' that would be instrumental in the establishment of the 203rd. Both were said to have been manhandled by Tanya, though the details of such were fuzzy that time, but in the end that only made them stronger, made them who they are now.

"Which any good commanding officer should be: fierce, decisive, and know how to motive her troops, even if it makes them look, uncaring! That is why…I greatly admire the Major!" Weiss was finished his second drink and was tipsily signaling for another.

"And our good ol' Lieutanant Weiss has just lost to liquor." commented Koenig in amusement.

"Well at least there ain't any pretty women around he'll offend." Neumann nudged his ponytailed fellow into the private joke. Realizing that Visha is present, he quickly added. "No offense intended of course towards you, Visha."

The mousy junior officer didn't seem to take any offence, or notice; instead she was worriedly concerned over Weiss' premature state of intoxication. "Lieutenant Weiss! You mustn't overdo it. We may be off duty now, but what if we're suddenly called in? You can't report in being like that?"

"So who do you think they were? Which country did they come from?" wondered Glanz while stealing glances towards Visha who was busy arguing with a tipsy Weiss.

"Well since they're romans, they must come from the Iltoa Kingdom" suggested Nuemann. Koenig quickly refuted that unsubstantiated theory.

"Except that we are presently under a non-aggression treaty with them. And besides, that doesn't explain those goblins, ogres, not to mention dragons, things of myth. Things thought not to exist even though magic does."

"Maybe so." answered the stout Lieutenant. "But you do admit we do have a dispute with a territory of theirs. It would be a good enough reason for them to pull a stunt like this."

"Excuse us! But is there a Second Lieutenant Viktoriya Serebryakov in here." Two military police personnel suddenly entered the establishment.

"I'm Second Lieutenant Serebryakov!" answered Visha, raising her hand to be easily identified by the men.

They coolly paced to their table. We've be ordered to look for you, by a certain Major Degurechaff. You're to contact her as soon as possible when we found you." They were obviously no nonsense people, there expressions stern when they delivered the message. One of them, who hasn't spoken, firmly glanced at Visha companions especially at Weiss.

"The Major?" wondered Visha.

"I have a phone here, lil' miss, you can use." offered the barkeep, bringing out the device and putting it on the bar.

"Thanks mister!" she turns to the men. "Is there anything else, gentlemen?" she asks them.

"No. That is all. However," the one speaking eventually turns his attention to Weiss. The rest of his fellow officers were trying to make him look sober with not much success. Visha became nervous at this.

"You shouldn't make your CO wait Miss."

"Right…Excuse me." She went pass the men and move towards the waiting phone. The proprietor gave her a knowing look and left the bar to be somewhere else, leaving her to her privacy. Visha went about in dialing the Major's office. After a few rings, and glancing back at her companions, the distinctive voice of Tanya answers.

"Hello, Major Degurechaff speaking."

"Major. It's me, Visha."

"Oh, Visha. Where are you? Are Weiss and the rest with you?"

"Yes, they are. We're in some bar downtown."

"I see…"

"Is there something wrong?"

"No. Nothing distressing. I just want to inform you, as of this moment all of the passes of the 203rd have been revoked and you're all to report back to your stations. Please pass this on to your fellow junior officers."

For the Major to say nothing is distressing but telling the battalion was to return to active duty doesn't sound reassuring for Tanya's adjutant. She greatly suspects that the appointed time is nearing, if not now, very, very soon. "Are we moving out, Major?"

"No. Not yet. However, you and the rest of officers are to accompany me to R&D tomorrow."

"R&D? What would they want with us?"

"If I'm to guess, it most definitely related to our planned incursion into the Gate."

Visha had mixed feeling about this. While she and others have seen much action, this Gate – it just has so many unknowns about it. If would be far better to take their time in knowing more about it first than rushing off to who knows where. She just couldn't understand why Tanya seemed passionate and determined to go after these new enemies.

"Anyways, make sure you're all presentable and sober by tomorrow, especially Lieutenant Weiss."

After a few exchanging of words between the two, Tanya sets down the receiver back to the phone. She then leans back to the comfort of her chair, her small hands clasped together just below her chest as she takes a few moments to relax. Her eyes eventually turned to the folder, with the bold word: confidential stamped on it, lying on the side of her desk. She has already read its contents, nothing much really, just a preliminary report with regards to the surviving remnants of the enemy the struck Berun a few nights ago. Surprising they refer to themselves as the Empire, a strange and rather not so amusing coincidence. What are the chances of that happening? The report also states they speak something similar to Latin, and the likelihood of them being related to the present Iltoa Kingdom is very unlikely. Just like this Empire they also have an emperor, and that their vast territory is comparable to that of the Rus Union. But even so, their technology is centuries behind theirs as proven in the Battle of Berun. In spite of their far superior numbers, about a hundred thousand, ninety-percent of their forces were defeated by a fraction of that number. Of course, things would have turned out differently had not the chain of command been reestablished. The other nations, especially potential enemies, would have been happy to see that and capitalized on the situation.

That is why we must deal with this Empire first before facing the others. If my assumption…No. Being X has already confirmed it. Curse him…

She looked around her slightly darkened office, scanning for any signs of his accursed presence that might be mocking her from the shadows. After convinced that not even a stench of him wafts the air, she continued on with her musings.

It will not be just the Republic or the Kingdoms. It's no secret that the U.S. supports both countries from afar, but I wouldn't be surprised if they would directly get involved eventually. And there is off course there is the Rus Union. Even if a nonaggression pact exists between our countries who knows what goes on the minds of those communists. If ever, it would be they who would make the move, not the Empire.

Tanya suddenly ruffled her hair furiously in frustration, giving out an agonizing groan. "Damn it! I never realized multitasking on this scale can get to you! It's so frustrating! And I blame Being X for this. Not his doing my ass!" referring to the Gate, which he told Tanya that he has nothing to do with it. "His fixation with me, going through all these lengths – having the whole world against me – just to acknowledge him, goes to show he is no all loving, merciful flying man that many people portray him to be. Instead he is just some perverted slave driver behind the scenes who has nothing better to do with his time!"

She slammed both her hands on the desk as she stood up from her chair, facing down with a look of consternation. "But like what I said: I'll deal with this gate-thing, and those romans, Empire, or whatever they are, first! Once I'm done with them I'll take on anyone else who would stand in my way of achieving a peaceful and prosperous world!" Tanya took on a few deep breaths to calm herself before taking a seat again. "You can do this Tanya. No you must do it. For the sake of a peaceful retirement from all this madness…"

R&D

"Major, are you nervous or something?"

"Me? Nervous? What makes you say that, Visha?"

"Well, you've been biting your thumb ever since we arrived here. Is there something here that is worrying you?"

"Nonsense, Visha. This is just an acquired habit of mine. It doesn't signify anything, much me being nervous."

"If you say so, Major."

But Tanya was nervous, a bit. The reason was she had a bad feeling about this visit to R&D.

"Major Degurechaff!"

She cringed at the sound of that voice causing her to actually bite her thumb hard to draw blood. But that did not bother her so much compared to the feeling of being flabbergasted upon seeing the person rushing towards her, arms spread and in jubilation.

"Doctor Schugel. I should have known…" moaned Tanya as she started wiping clean her bloodied finger with a handkerchief.

"Why the gloomy introduction? Seeing you here means you've survived my V-1s, last time we met. And that goes the same for your men, and lady, here."

Visha couldn't help herself blush at the mention of her being a lady. And as for Weiss, who along with other officers of the 203rd who came along, couldn't help himself to speak highly of the master scientist.

"Yes, it was the most certainly an ingenious thing, speed and surprise. It surely 'shocked' and induced 'awe' to the enemy that by the time they realized what was happening, we had already accomplished the mission and headed safely for friendly territory!"

The grey-haired, balding doctor seemed happy to hear this. "I am glad there is at least one who appreciates my contribution to the war effort. And it is all thanks be to God!"

Tanya lightly coughed at point, putting on a sour face with the mention of Being X's well-known alias. "I hate to end your narcissistic indulgence, Doctor, but I believe we some important matters for being here, and I suspect you're right in the middle of all this."

"You're not wrong there, Major. And you're right. We should head straight to business. Please follow me."

The eccentric old man led Tanya and company to the lower levels of the facility where security becomes stricter as one goes further.

They passed corridors that branch out, and doors that denote restricted areas. One of these doors was their destination and it opened to what seems to be a massive underground firing range. While not totally unoccupied, a certain man in military uniform seems to expecting the group's arrival.

"This is Lieutenant Winter. He is Head QA for our small arms development. From pistols to machineguns, he has tried and tested them all before having them proposed to be issued into service. He will be orienting you to the new arsenal that would be issued to the 203rd. When you're all satisfied and finished, ask the good ol' Lieutenant to accompany you to where I'm at. I'll be waiting for you there. Lieutenant?" He nodded at the man and left them Tanya's group into his care.

"Please, step right up." said Lt. Winter, directing Tanya and her group to stand nearby a large table where a few impressive weapons were lined up. The white-haired officer then picked up a rifle with a large ammo clip. "Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the M1916 self-loading rifle, our very own make. Its design allows the user for a more accurate aiming, and with a twenty-five round cartridge capacity would put him, or her, twice as long in a fight before having to reload." He hands it over to Tanya for her personal inspection before she passes it on to rest of her team.

"This will replace your Mondragons, but due to its prohibitive production costs, we were able to produce only few numbers of them. Rather than having them go to waste, we've decided it best your group get to genuinely use them."

"Personally I find it a little bit heavier. If you don't mind I'll be sticking to my old rifle. Besides, it's got a sentimental value to me."

"Not at all, Major. Your choice."

Shortly after some familiarizing and demonstration of the rifle, which Lt. Weiss was sold by its performance, Lt. Winters shows them the next weapon in line. "The MP 18 submachinegun. Up to now, you've engaged the enemy in the air and at a safe distance. However you cannot discount the likelihood of getting into short range and close quarter fights, and the rifle can be awkward, and a liability, in such situations. That's what the MP 18 is for."

Tanya takes hold of the weapon, examines it and tries out on the range. She then hands it back, looking rather unimpressed. "Its fine, I guess, though it too is a bit heavy for me. I would rather retain the one I already have. It feels just right for me somehow."

Winter was giving Tanya a slight glare, which she noticed. She was giving her honest opinion after all. But to avoid any further entanglements she decided to follow-up objectively.

"Don't get me wrong. I'm glad we're finally having these kinds of things fielded. It's been long overdue. They'll be a great addition to the battalion's arsenal."

Winter could only smile at this. "I'm glad you see it that way." He then finally brings attention to the final weapon on display. "The MG 30 light machinegun: a heavy hitter meant for dealing with enemy aircraft as well as soft targets." He lifts it and presents it to them. In spite of its intimidating size and length, it seems quite easy to carry and handle. "I'm sure with this it will be quite useful against those dragon-things. Only a few will be issued this weapon though I'm afraid."

"That's all right. You've given us plenty already. It's like we've just been given a lot of Christmas presents." Tanya glances at her company, giving them a knowing smile. "With these additions and our magical capabilities, we're a force to be reckoned with." Of course in the back of her mind she thinks all this is way overkill but then again the more and better to get the job done.

After which, with all that is said and done, Winter finally leads the group to the final part of the this visit where Dr. Schugel awaits.

"You sure took your sweet time." humored the good ol' doctor. The area they entered resembles the firing range they came from but instead a series of weapons lined up on the table there is only one kind and it looks like nothing they ever seen. Lt. Winter of course excuses himself at the point, leaving Tanya and the others alone with the wily scientist. Tanya nonchalantly turns to the Schugel.

"I'm guessing this is the part where you show us something which you made and was inspired by god?" Her sarcasm knows no bounds. If she did not know any better she thinks Being X is really working through Dr. Schugel, though if that really turned out to be the case, it wouldn't be enough reason for her to kill the wack, even if she has some misgivings over him, without considering the repercussions.

The wacky scientist brings up a quivering finger of acknowledgement. "Quite." he gleefully said. "This," he points the objects on the table which appears like large metal rods with a large metal bulbous head at what seems to be the top end of it. "Is an offshoot of my V-1 project. I call it: the armor fist!" He picks up one and shows it to the group. "It's a single-shot, disposable anti-armor weapon which uses rocket propellant to send it high explosive warhead to it is target, able to penetrate up to 200 mm of armor thickness! At the moment, the major drawback of the weapon is its limited range, effective at thirty meters. Though plans are already in set to increase its firing distance as well as provide reloadable feature so it can be used more than once." He offers to anyone interested. "Anyone care to try it out?"

Neumann seemed eager to do so and takes the strange contraption. After a few instructions from the doctor he stands facing the firing gallery.

"Everyone, stand away from the blowback." reminded Schugel to the others, making sure nobody is behind Neumann.

The stout lieutenant had already pulled out the folding rear sight of the weapon. Looking back to make sure nobody was behind him he then took aim and shortly afterwards press the fire mechanism that caused the warhead to fly off with a loud boom followed by a whooshing sound. It strikes an intended stationary target, destroying it in an impressive explosive blast. This wowed all those present.

"I don't understand." started Weiss. "We have our artillery spells. Why would we need these armor fists?"

Schugel waved a stern finger at the young lieutenant. "Think like that Lieutenant and you're bound to catch yourself short during a dire situation. The answer is quiet rudimentary. Magic requires mana. The greater the spell the more mana it requires. And any mage can hold so much mana before needing to replenish it. During those times, you can only depend on what you have in hand. You may not realize it but these armor fists might prove useful regardless. Who knows if you'll meet something worse than flying dragons."

"We greatly appreciate your foresight doctor, but what I would want to know is any findings you have regarding the Gate? Can if it be safely entered by anybody?" asked Tanya.

"So far we've determined that the Gate can be safely entered. But that's about it for now. Its interior seems endless and that it emits a powerful magical signature unlike anything we know of, in the long history of magic in this world."

"That's it?" Tanya felt disappointed.

"Wait. I'm not finished yet. In order to continue our research on the Gate we need some brave volunteers to explore further its interior. See how long it goes, where it leads too, see if there are any further effects we're not aware of…Major, I heard you volunteered your outfit to go through it. Did you not?"

"Y-Yes. But I was being rash that time. I don't want to needlessly risk my unit if the uncertainties are too great."

Visha felt exhilarated when heard those words, clasping her hands in joy. "I knew the Major genuinely cares for her men!"

"I never once doubted she did. That is why I look up to her." added Weiss proudly.

"Didn't you say you like her being a taskmaster and such?" brought up Nuemann who was quickly nudged by Koenig who whispered to him.

"The Lieutenant was drunk that time. And should you really be saying such things with the Major around?"

Fortunately for them, Tanya was too focused with Schugel to hear or care their remarks.

"I already told you, it is safe to enter so far. Besides, don't you want to get to bottom of this sooner than later?" hummed the doctor.

Schugel had a point; Tanya wanted to deal with this Gate problem as soon as possible. But she hated to be used as a guinea pig especially by him. Before she could make her say on the matter a growing commotion could heard coming from the halls outside. Suddenly a young man in a lab coat entered the area the group is in, bearing a worried look.

"Doctor Schugel! Have you heard?" panted the man.

"No. Spit it out, I'm a busy man here!" he irritably scowled.

"The Republic-the remaining Republic forces under General de Lugo have formed the Free Republic forces in their African colony in Malgeria. They've-declared war on the Empire!"

By the Gate

Tanya stood once more before the Gate but this time is the time she intends to go on into it along with her mage battalion, the 203rd. It has been a couple of days since the news of the formation of the Free Republic Army and its declaration of war against the Empire. She had guessed of this of happening and now the Empire is caught between two new emerging conflicts that threaten it: one the Republic remnants and the other the Empire from beyond the Gate. It would nice if those are all they have to worry about. There have been rumors flying for some time of the Allied Kingdoms' plans to liberate the Legadonia Federation after its fall to the Empire; or of scarier unconfirmed news that the Rus Union is massing more of its forces before the borders of the Fatherland, in reaction to Empire finally defeating all its enemies. Tanya however had to dismiss such thoughts and had to focus on the now.

"Are we good, doctor?" She turned and looked at Schugel, who stood nearby, not far from them, behind some machinery that has been setup, mostly for gathering information and for communication.

"Ready when you are!" he hollered, happily waving a hand at her. Colonel Ruregen stood beside him as well.

"Remember Major Degurechaff, if you encounter any enemy forces, neutralize them if able, but do not give chase if they retreat. Securing the Gate, and its vicinity, on the other side is your primarily goal, of course this in conjunction with gathering information on the Gate and its interior." He all relayed this through the comm.

"Understood." was all that she answered with an impassive look on her face as she fixed her attention on the Gate before her.

Ruregen wasn't sure he liked the air Tanya was putting out but at least she seems back to her normal self, acting like what an officer should be and that is taking and following orders. He deeply hopes he is proven wrong about her and that she doesn't do anything else stupid to jeopardize her career. He could only hope of such though, knowing her.

"Should enemy resistance prove too great, pullback your unit. Understood, Major?"

"Don't worry. I'm not going risk the lives of my men if the odds are not going to be in our favor." This made Visha and the other glad of knowing. "However, I trust in the capabilities of each and every one of them, to ensure that the mission object is met."

Fair enough, Ruregen thought, and would have to trust her on that. "Then I wish you, and your men, the best of luck, Major." He then saluted her in acknowledgement.

Tanya returned the courtesy but in the back of her mind she scoffed at the notion of chance playing a role in the success of one's actions. You either come equipped and prepared or fail due to a lack of foresight.

"Make final check on weapons and gear!" she called out. A series of "Check" were heard among the men as they ensured all their equipment was in working order. "Activated night-vision spells!" Tanya's eyes as well the rest of the 203rd's glowed, signifying that the intended spell was cast. "203rd, move out!" And thus, with their flight suit empowered, Tanya's unit lifted off and pass through the darkened interior of the Gate in droves. Dr. Schugel wished them off.

"May God be with you!"

The other side of the Gate

A couple of goblins scampered out the Gate, chittering a warning to all those who could hear. A mercenary who understood their language relayed what they were saying to the Imperial legionnaires present at Alnus Hill. They and several thousands of inhuman troops under their command spurred to action, having waited on the spot for days, to see if the enemies from the other side would follow. Now that time has come.

"Ready archers! Ready the ballistae!"

The archers nocked their arrows and the crossbowmen loaded their bolts, taking aim and waiting for the order to let loose. Ballistae – large crossbow-like siege weapons were similarly being readied. While word have spread among the ranks of the enemy possessing magic that protect them from any harm nobody knows what to really expect. They hoped the large wooden war machines would provide some edge at least. Besides all these, a long file of humanoids: orcs, goblins, ogres, and others encircled the Gate's perimeter, ready to rush in at anyone or anything that will pass through. They stood and waited…until several flying figures started emerging out.

"Fire!"

The archers released their arrows and the ballistae launched their spear-sized projectiles into the air, they seem to connect to their intended target, which prompted some triumphant cheers at first but very quickly quieted down. The aerial targets appeared to have been unharmed and just stood in the air hovering which baffled the gathered force. Their concerns grew as they then noticed the floating figures shifted, blinking in and out until they rapidly faded out of existence. That's when a new batch of flying men emerged out of the Gate and began raining down death on the confused force.

"Kill all the degenerates! Maim the humans among them for capture if you can! I want some prisoners to be questioned!"

Tanya floated while directing her men. As usual, Visha was by her side. Weiss was nearby taking potshots at the enemy below, a wide grin plastered to his face as gunned down targets one after the other.

"Say, this rifles are really are more accurate! We should really thank R&D for providing us with these!" said Weiss in gratification.

"Don't get too carried away with your new toys. Focus on the mission at hand." cautioned Tanya. "We must show them that we're not to be trifled with."

Visha observed a few of her comrades making strafing runs using their submachineguns on the hapless goblins and their ilk below, that's when she noticed one the ballistae orienting itself towards their position.

"Anti-Air artillery at 2 o' cloak!" warned Visha.

Tanya sees it. "Somebody take that out!" she called on the comm.

"On the way, Major!" It was Neumann who was closest to the thing. He stopped to hover and pulled out his armor fist. Quickly sets it up and fires. A direct hit which blasts the ballista into so many pieces along with any unfortunates nearby.

The engagement did not last long and was rather one-sided, in favor of Tanya's group. Many on the enemy side were killed but many still were able to flee for their lives against a foe which had an unfair advantage over them. As promised Tanya decided not give pursuit to those who fled.

"Do not follow them too far! But keep your eyes on what they're up to!"

Besides, there was the matter of securing the Gate and its surroundings as well as the securing and interrogation of captives taken. Questioning them wasn't too hard though thanks to spells that allowed the caster to learn any language.

"Major. I got wind of something you should know." reported Koenig, who just came from interrogating the prisoners.

"Well. What is it?"

The ponytailed haired lieutenant continued. "A number of our Imperial citizens, who went missing during the night of the attack, have turned up as captive here." This piqued everyone's interest.

"So where are they?" Tanya asked rather unpassionately.

Koenig seemed trouble but finally answered. "They have been marched off, and are going to be sold as…slaves."

"Slavery. How despicable! And our very own countrymen are its victims." Weiss could not restrain his abhorrence while Visha became pale at the thought of those poor people.

"We must go and rescue them, as soon as we can!" suggested Glanz. He turns to Tanya. "Major!"

She merely raised a hand to silence him. "Did they say how long they've gone?" she asked Koenig.

"Five days ago. But if they're moving slowly, we could-"

"We're doing no such thing." Tanya cut him off. This brought concerned looks from amongst her junior officers, especially Glanz. She just impassively glared at them. "We have our orders. Securing this area is our priority. Any further action must be consulted to Command."

A group men wearing armor, unlike that of the romans, were situated atop a ridge that overlooked Alnus Hill from the south. The have overseen the whole battle that transpired between the Empire and those flying beings that came out of the Gate, up to its conclusion and they agreed they have much to worry about.

"So sir, what are we going to do now?" asked a subordinate to his commander. The said main wore a frown, and while what he witness seemed grim it was his duty to do what must be done.

"We ride back to Elbe, and report what we have seen to King Duran."